Time is running out for West Midlands exporters wanting to be in with a chance of winning this year’s International Trade Awards.

Taking place at the New Bingley Hall in Birmingham on June 11, West Midlands International Trade Awards will celebrate companies that have done their best to sell products, services and expertise around the world in the past 12 months, with help from UK Trade & Investment.

There are six categories covering businesses of all sizes and sectors around the region. All companies entering have gone through the Passport scheme or have been assisted by UKTI advisers:

Passport Exporter of the Year

Small Passport Exporter of the Year

Innovative Company of the Year

Best Export Achiever of the Year

Best West Midlands Exporter of the Year, which will be decided on the night by those attending the event.

The deadline for nominations is April 24 and can be submitted at www.chamberinternationaltrade.co.uk.

Doug Mahoney, UKTI director for the West Midlands, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for companies to celebrate their international achievements over the past year.

“We are getting reports from our international trade teams around the region that more people are exploring the possibilities of exporting as a way to boost their business. That is great news for the West Midlands, which has always been one of the best areas for international trade.

“Looking back at last year’s winners, they were a varied group, which importantly came from right across the region, proving this kind of overseas success can be experienced by everyone with a little help from UKTI no matter where they’re based, not just those in the main conurbations.”

The event will be hosted by Sameena Ali Khan, the new face of ITV Central News in the West Midlands, with one of the senior figures from UK Trade and Investment also expected to attend. For more information about tickets (£35+VAT) and entering the awards visit www.chamberinternationaltrade.co.uk.